The Cleveland Guardians are undergoing a major roster adjustment as they prepare to face the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, hoping to avoid a series sweep after six straight losses. These changes come amid a turbulent stretch in their Major League Baseball campaign and a key player’s unexpected leave of absence.
Luis Ortiz Placed on Paid Administrative Leave
Major League Baseball announced earlier that Luis Ortiz has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through the All-Star break while an investigation takes place. This unforeseen absence requires the Guardians to rapidly alter their pitching rotation during a critical part of the season.
Joey Cantillo Steps Up for His MLB Starting Debut
In response to Ortiz’s leave, the Guardians have called up Joey Cantillo from Triple-A to make his first start of the season. Cantillo, who has participated in 21 games as a reliever this year, carries a 3.81 ERA and 1.38 WHIP. After spending time in the minors since late May, the team is transitioning him back into a starter role. Tonight’s performance will be crucial as Cantillo takes on the pressure of leading the pitching staff.
Kolby Allard Designated for Assignment to Open Roster Spot
The Guardians also designated Kolby Allard for assignment despite his solid performance out of the bullpen, where he posted a 2.55 ERA this season. Allard’s recent outing featured three scoreless innings, but the team’s need for a long reliever prompted this roster move. The organization hopes Allard will clear waivers and rejoin the club on a minor league deal.
Doug Nikhazy Returns to the Major League Bullpen
To fill the relief gap, Cleveland recalled left-handed pitcher Doug Nikhazy from Triple-A. Although Nikhazy’s MLB debut this season was difficult, allowing six earned runs over three innings, he has shown promise in the minors. The Guardians plan to use him for extended relief appearances, relying on his ability to provide depth as Cantillo starts and pitching demands increase.
Implications of Roster Moves During a Difficult Stretch
As the Guardians contend with this upheaval, the performances of Joey Cantillo, Doug Nikhazy, and other pitchers will be closely monitored. These roster decisions reflect the team’s focus on adapting to challenges and remaining competitive while navigating a tough period of the season.
“Luis Ortiz’s suspension throws Cubs a curveball as they scramble to face Joey Cantillo” —Unnamed Source
“Luis Ortiz’s unexpected leave amidst mysterious league investigation leaves Guardians in suspense through All-Star break” —Unnamed Source
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What nationality is Joey Cantillo?
A. Joseph Lopaka Cantillo, born on December 18, 1999, is a baseball player from the United States. He pitches for the Cleveland Guardians in Major League Baseball (MLB).
Q. Is Joey Cantillo good?
A. Although Cantillo’s fastball in the mid-80s didn’t wow scouts, he made a strong impression during a workout with the Padres in 2017. That year, he was named Gatorade’s Hawaii Player of the Year and was drafted in the 16th round. Despite this, he received a fifth-round signing bonus of $302,500.
Q. How good is Joey Cantillo?
A. He had a 4.07 ERA across 26 games and 24 starts with Akron and Columbus. He pitched a personal best of 119.1 innings and participated in the SiriusXM Futures Game. He led the system with 146 strikeouts and ranked third in innings pitched. He moved up from Akron on May 18. In August, he showed strong performance over six starts in Triple-A.